Description
For the novice:
- a super easy getting started guide
- an Atmel AVR quick start guide using the Atmel Studio IDE
- distilled tutorials and examples that cut to the chase
- support for Arduino IDE development so that you can have the best of both worlds
For the expert:
- a user friendly CLI explorer app (Un*x-like shell running on micro) to experiment with GPIO, A/D, UART, SPI, I2C & DataFlash
- an extensive firmware framework to develop new applications faster
- a Temp&Pressure and Analog voltage data logger app that demo the robust data logging file system for the on-board AT45D DataFlash
Markets
- Education
- Rapid prototyping and driver development
- Low power, robust data logging (great for IoT!)
- Bed Of Nails Test Fixtures (a.k.a. Test Jigs)
Features
- Atmel ATmega328P micro (32k FLASH, 2k SRAM) shipped with XMODEM bootloader and CLI explorer app
- 7.3728 MHz crystal for precise BAUD rates
- Genuine FTDI FT230XS USB-UART bridge for robust serial comms
- User interface:
- User, RX and TX LED
- User and reset button
- Piezo buzzer
- Adesto AT45DB041E DataFlash (512k + 16k) for robust data logging
- Ultra low-power Microchip MCP1700T-3302E/MB linear regulator for outstanding battery life (in sleep mode)
- Prototype header (with multiple +3V3 and GND pins for easy wiring and better EMC):
- PWR (external +3.6V to +6V power supply)
- GPIO x 5
- I2C (with 4.7k pull-up resistors)
- A/D x 4 (with scaling and filtering)
- SPI
- UART (shared with USB-UART bridge; path is software selectable)
- ISP/DBG header for programming and debugging
- 2 x 3.4 mm mounting holes (ideal for M3 threaded hexagonal spacers)
Graham B. –
I will begin this short review with the usual disclaimer. I have no affiliation with Piconomic Design. I am simply a happy customer.
I was wanting to experiment with rechargeable battery operated devices and data logging. I did some research and found lots of references to Arduino projects. But I was not interested in Arduino as a development platform. Yes, it is virtually universal in the maker world and there is a large library base to support many peripherals. But, after decades in small-scale ‘bare-metal’ embedded development, I was looking for something with less abstraction.
In this case, I wanted to shorten the process in order to start learning about battery operation and charging, etc. So I continued searching for another ready-made solution and discovered the Scorpion board. As I studied the design, it became clear that plenty of thought had been given to its features and design. It had all the things I needed for my new learning project.
The hardware difference (from Arduino) was a plus, for me. The board is compact and there is a single I/O header-style connector along one edge. The signal pinouts have been carefully considered and arranged in a logical order. I ordered a board with the battery connector and charging circuit installed. The build quality of the Scorpion is excellent.
On the firmware side, the Scorpion comes with an easy-to-use Scripting Engine pre-installed. So testing the board was a snap. A quick hook-up to a laptop running a terminal emulator provided instant interaction with the Scorpion. In only a few minutes, I was able to read some analogue voltages and drive an LED connected to the various I/O pins.
Although I will be replacing the Scripting Engine with my own code, it was nice to be able to exercise the board on arrival. Also, for a quick-turn lab or industrial application, scripting makes the Scorpion an excellent choice for rush and ad-hoc projects.
The pre-sale experience with Piconomic Design was excellent. I had a few questions and my e-mails were answered promptly and in detail. The price represents great value and I ordered 2 boards. The order process went smoothly and the package arrived in Canada in good condition (by Post) in 8 days.
Based on the combination of price, quality, and service, I have no hesitation in recommending the Scorpion and Piconomic Design.